KISS THE BLOOD OFF MY HANDS

by Gerald Butler ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 28, 1946

A second (Dark Rainbow) severe, sanguinary story of misdirection and violence, this time that of lightfingered, hardfisted Bill Saunders, who makes a living off mugs and takes what he wants -- one way or another. Beating a man to death in a pub, Bill gets away, hides out for a night with a girl, Jane, and for the first time is vulnerable to outside influence. Unable to keep away from Jane he sees more and more of her, softens up, but refuses to admit the fact of the murder in spite of her suspicion, and eventually goes to jail in a second fight. On his release, Jane gets him a job, keeps him out of trouble, until she is approached by a witness of the murder, is victimised, and to protect Bill and herself -- murders. Bill plans an escape for two, toys with the idea of plastic surgery for Jane to ensure her anonymity, and -- in the getaway -- sees this accomplished by accident when Jane is mutilated beyond recognition. A tight narrative of recklessness, ruthlessness, which in its way is holding.

Pub Date: Feb. 28, 1946

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Farrar & Rinehart

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1946

Categories: FICTION